:Housemates

Aixela's Pov:

"Feel at home," He said as the lights turned on.

His house was just the right size for two people or a couple but looks like he lives alone here. I only saw three shoes on his shoe rack when I put my shoes there and it all looked like his.

"A-are you sure it's okay for me to be here?" I asked.

"It's better than me coming to you every day. There are only two of us here so..." He stopped talking for a moment and I looked at him. "..so you don't have to be shy."

I was silenced. Why does it seem hot here?

"There is only one room here--" I didn't let him finish speaking.

"I-I'm just... I'll just sleep here in the living room... Hehe..." I tittered.

He nodded. "Ok. There are extra blankets and pillows in the cabinet. Just pick it up there."

I raised an eyebrow at what he said. Seriously? He won't even offer me the room?

"Why?" He suddenly asked.

"Huh? Nothing?" I said and shook my head.

"Don't worry, it's cold here at night so even if you don't turn on the fan, it's fine. I have a comforter there if it really gets cold. The door also has a triple lock so don't be afraid. And if you need anything, just knock in my room."

I forced a smile as he looked at me.

"You already got all your belongings, didn't you?" He asked, which I nodded. "Just put it in that cabinet. That space is still wide. If you are hungry, just go to the kitchen. I still have stocks there."

"I'll use the shower first. Then you," He said.

"Hmm?" My eyes widened.

"Why? Aren't you going to take a bath?"

"A-- Oww... Y-yeah, yeah. Use it first," I tittered as I fan myself with my hands.

He nodded and signaled that he was going to take a bath. I just smiled and nodded.

When he left, I rested deeply and sat on the sofa. I leaned my head and closed my eyes. I remember the conversation Mama and I had earlier.

-------------------FLASHBACK---------------------

"Wait what? You've witnessed a crime?" Denise exclaimed.

I nodded. "That's why I can't come back there for now. I have to help them catch the culprit."

"But it's too dangerous," Mama said.

"Yes, I know. But I have no choice. The culprit saw me. He might kill me. Or worse, he might hurt you and that's what I can afford to happen," I replied.

"So, we must limit our contact. If someone suspicious asked about me, just tell them you don't know me or I'm just a staff. Mama, Denise, please take care. As much as possible, don't leave our house or communicate with other people for now," I plead.

"Don't worry about us. We'll be safe here. But, how about you? Where are you going to stay?" Mama asked.

"I was given a witness protection program so I'm going to stay with a police officer to secure my safety."

"Wait, you mean, you're gonna stay with a police officer in one roof? JUST the two of you?" Denise clarified. Her eyes widened when I nodded and was about to tease me, but realized that she shouldn't.

"Is it ok with you?" Mama asked.

"It must be. I have no choice," I said.

"How about Louis? Are you going to tell him your situation?"

"I don't think so. I don't want him to be involved."

"But he has the right to know it. He's your boyfriend. Even if you're staying with a police officer, he's still a man. I'm sure he'll be surprised if he'll know it without you saying it."

"As if he cares," Denise murmured.

"Denise!" Mama pulled her up.

"Denise... Please take a look at him while I'm here," I requested.

"What? Is he an infant?" She replied sarcastically.

"Please, Denise..." I begged.

She sighed deeply. "Ok, ok. Don't worry, I'll make sure to report to you everything he does."

"Don't mind us, Xela. Just think about yourself. Take care of yourself, hmm? Just tell us what you need," Mama said.

"Thank you, Ma, Denise."

---------------END OF FLASHBACK-----------------

As I opened my eyes, I was shocked when I saw him topless while drying out his hair with a towel.

"Ahhhh!" I screamed while closing my eyes.

"Did I wake you up?" He asked.

"Huh? N-no. But, what are you doing here? Why aren't you wearing a shirt?" I jittery asked.

"Obviously, I just took a bath."

"Yeah, I know. B-but you should be doing that in your room."

"Doing what?"

"That! That wiping... Uhmm... Argh! Nevermind!"

I first tried to feel if he had left before I opened my eyes. When I was assured that he was gone, I took my things and went to the bathroom. It's weird to take a bath in someone else's bathroom but I can do it. Huhu!

¬¬¬

After getting dressed, I took the blanket and pillow from the cabinet and laid down on the sofa. It fits me but I'm not comfortable enough. I don't know why that man didn't even bother to offer his bed to me. How gentleman he is. Tsk!

I stared at my phone for a while and convinced myself not to do it but I can't help it. I hope Louis is doing well. I hope he misses me.

*beep*

A wide smile curves over my mouth as I open the message from Louis.

From: My Louis

Xei, Mama Nadia told me that you have something to finish there for a while. She said you're worried about me. Don't worry, hm? I'll take care of myself. Just focus on what you have to do there. Let's have a date when you come back. Imy & ily.

I got teary-eyed.

To: My Louis

Thank you, Louis! Always take care and enjoy. I miss you so much! I'll see you soon.. Hopefully. I love you<3

I rested deeply. I don't have to doubt his love for me. What I have to think about is how am I going to face this thing. How I can help as the witness?